Cereal Fibers and Satiety: A Systematic Review

Intake of cereal fiber has been linked to favorable health outcomes, such as lower body weight. Changes in perceived appetite sensations are a possible mechanism. Evidence of varied effects of different cereal fibers on satiety is conflicting.

Considering satiety as a potential mechanism to reduce dietary intake, this study aimed to systematically review the effect of higher cereal fiber intake compared with a lower-fiber control on appetite sensations and ad libitum energy intake, using visual analog scales and subsequent meal intake data.

Literature pertaining to the effects of cereal fibers on satiety outcomes was gathered through Medline, Scopus, CINAHL Plus, and Web of Science.

Randomized crossover intervention studies in healthy humans assessing the effects of cereal fibers on subjective measures of appetite for a minimum of 2 hours, with ≥3-day washout periods, and that detailed the type and amount of fiber delivered for each intervention were eligible. Quality was assessed using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Quality Criteria Checklist and Health Canada Consistency Tool.

Evidence from 48 studies indicated that cereal fiber intake was associated with favorable effects on satiety and other measures of appetite but limited effects on ad libitum energy intake. Higher cereal fiber intake from rye and oat sources showed superior effects on appetite compared with a lower-fiber control. Wheat and barley fibers as well as functional fibers, resistant starch, and soluble corn fiber, showed a weak effect on appetite sensations and ad libitum energy intake.

Overall, a higher intake of cereal fiber compared with a low-fiber control indicates positive effects on satiety measures. Further research is required to assess the influence of physicochemical properties of different cereal fiber types as well as effects of age, gender, and disease state on expression of satiety signals.

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023395182.